Pro-Palestinian Protester Filmed Spitting on Statue of Slain MP David Amess

A pro-Palestinian protester has drawn widespread condemnation after filming himself spitting on a statue dedicated to murdered Member of Parliament Sir David Amess. The incident, which occurred on the Southend seafront, has prompted Essex Police to consider an investigation into the individual, who is active on social media under the moniker 'Angry Jesus.'

The footage, circulated online, shows the individual spitting on the likeness of Sir David Amess multiple times. During the act, the individual stated, "People were just bowing to this p***k. Voted for the Iraq war. Shame." This occurred shortly after the fifth anniversary of Sir David's murder.

Despite recording and posting the footage, the individual later claimed in social media comments that it was not him spitting on the statue, adding, "If I catch the person who did, I’ll #grrrrrr."

Former Home Secretary and Essex MP Dame Priti Patel, who was present with Sir David's family to unveil the sculpture in 2024, described the act as "sickening and disgusting" and committed by a "vile individual." She emphasized Sir David's character, stating, "Sir David was respectful, kind and a powerful advocate for free speech and expression. He always debated political differences with dignity. To disrespect his life and legacy in this way is dreadful."

Sir David Amess, 69, was tragically killed by Ali Harbi Ali during a constituency surgery at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, on October 15, 2021. Ali was convicted of murder and preparation of terrorist acts in 2022 and received a whole-life sentence.

The individual, 'Angry Jesus,' further defended his actions in online discussions, questioning the presence of the statue. "Why do we have a statue of someone who was partly responsible for the murdering of 1 million people? That doesn’t set a good example for future generations," he commented. He also questioned the concern for Sir David's children, suggesting the energy be directed toward helping orphans in conflict regions. "David’s adult children will be just fine. I don’t want to see someone as heartless as Mr Amess on my morning run. Take the statue down and I am sure whoever is spitting on it will stop," he added.